This Crockpot Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort food. With a creamy texture and rich flavor from the cheddar and crispy bacon, it’s the perfect dish to serve on a chilly evening. The soft, tender potatoes blend harmoniously with the savory ingredients to create a satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out.
Whether you serve it as a starter or a main dish, this soup is guaranteed to please. Pair it with a simple side salad or a loaf of warm bread for the ultimate comfort meal. It’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
Full Recipe:
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4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
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1 medium onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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4 cups chicken broth
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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Salt to taste
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions:
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Place the diced potatoes, onion, garlic, and chicken broth in a crockpot.
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Cook on low for 6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to mash about half of the potatoes for a creamy texture while keeping some chunks.
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Add in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, thyme, black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
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Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes / Cooking Time: 6 hours (on low) / Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 370 kcal / Servings: 6 servings
A Warm Bowl of Comfort: Crockpot Potato Soup
Potato soup is the perfect dish to bring warmth and comfort during the colder months. This Crockpot Potato Soup is easy to prepare and allows you to enjoy a hearty, creamy bowl of soup with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal for a chilly night, a filling lunch, or a simple dinner for the whole family, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Why Choose a Crockpot for Potato Soup?
The beauty of using a crockpot (slow cooker) to prepare this potato soup is the convenience it offers. Rather than having to hover over the stove, you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to soften perfectly over time. This slow cooking method helps retain the nutrients and intensifies the flavors of the ingredients. Additionally, the long cooking time allows for a creamy, smooth texture without much effort on your part.
Slow cooking allows the potatoes to break down just enough so they can create a naturally thickened broth, giving you that perfect creamy consistency. There’s no need for heavy cream or any thickening agents – the crockpot does all the work for you.
The Key Ingredients in This Comforting Soup
Although this recipe is simple, the combination of ingredients creates a deep, satisfying flavor. Russet potatoes, with their starchy texture, are ideal for this soup. As they cook, they break down and blend into the broth, naturally thickening the soup without the need for any flour or cornstarch.
Onions and garlic form the flavor base, giving the soup a savory foundation. These aromatics infuse the broth as they cook, ensuring that every bite is full of rich flavor. The addition of chicken broth adds depth, while the creaminess comes from the heavy cream. The cheese adds both flavor and texture, giving the soup that quintessential “comfort food” feel.
Bacon is another star ingredient in this recipe. Its crispness adds a satisfying crunch, and the smoky flavor it imparts gives the soup a hearty, satisfying taste. The crispy bacon also adds an extra layer of texture that perfectly complements the creamy base of the soup.
How to Customize Your Crockpot Potato Soup
One of the great things about this potato soup is how versatile it is. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or what you have in your pantry. For a richer flavor, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even add a splash of whole milk for a lighter soup. You can also switch out the chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it a vegetarian-friendly option.
If you’re not a fan of bacon, or you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you could swap it out for turkey bacon or even omit it entirely. Alternatively, try adding other proteins, such as cooked shredded chicken, sausage, or ham, to give the soup more substance. For added flavor, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be tossed in during cooking. Top the soup with additional fresh herbs or croutons just before serving for an extra burst of flavor and crunch.
The Benefits of Making Potato Soup in a Crockpot
Cooking potato soup in a crockpot comes with several benefits. First and foremost, it’s an incredibly hands-off cooking method. Once you’ve added the ingredients to the slow cooker, you can walk away and let it cook. It’s an excellent solution for busy people who want a hot, homemade meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Slow cookers also do a fantastic job of tenderizing ingredients and blending flavors. The long cooking time allows the potatoes to soften and release their starches, creating a naturally thickened and creamy soup. Since the crockpot maintains a low, even heat, it also helps preserve the nutrients in the ingredients, making this a healthier option compared to some traditional stovetop methods.
A Hearty, Filling Meal for Any Occasion
This Crockpot Potato Soup is ideal for any meal of the day. It works beautifully as a comforting dinner when you’re craving something warm and filling. Pair it with a simple salad or a warm loaf of bread, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal that will keep you full for hours.
It’s also a great option for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. The soup can easily be doubled or even tripled to serve a large group, making it an ideal dish to prepare for events like family reunions, holiday gatherings, or a cozy get-together with friends. The leftovers taste just as good the next day, making it a meal that keeps on giving.
For a lighter twist, you can serve this soup as an appetizer or starter to a larger meal. It’s a great way to warm up guests before diving into a heavier main course. Regardless of how you serve it, this Crockpot Potato Soup is sure to be a hit.
Nutritional Benefits of Crockpot Potato Soup
Though potato soup is often viewed as a comfort food, it doesn’t have to be an unhealthy indulgence. Potatoes themselves are a great source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and potassium. The added vegetables like onions and garlic also provide a range of nutrients that contribute to overall health.
The inclusion of bacon, while delicious, is an ingredient you can control based on your dietary needs. For a leaner version, you could opt for turkey bacon or omit the bacon altogether. Using a reduced-fat cream option can also cut down on the calorie count without sacrificing flavor. If you’re looking for an even healthier version, try swapping in low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium content of the soup.
Why This Recipe Works for Busy People
One of the best parts of this recipe is how little active time it requires. Simply chop your potatoes and onions, toss everything into the slow cooker, and let the crockpot do the work. This is perfect for busy families, people working from home, or anyone who wants to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You can set it in the morning, go about your day, and come home to a piping hot, ready-to-eat meal.
This also makes it an excellent option for meal prepping. You can easily make a large batch of this potato soup, divide it into individual servings, and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for future meals. The soup stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat and enjoy!
Perfect Pairings for Your Potato Soup
Potato soup is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the soup. A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth, and a side of roasted vegetables adds an extra serving of nutrients.
If you’re craving something heartier, a grilled cheese sandwich or a turkey club sandwich makes the perfect sidekick to this comforting soup. You can also top the soup with crumbled crackers or shredded cheese to enhance the texture and flavor.
Conclusion: A Cozy, Delicious Classic
This Crockpot Potato Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a bowl of comfort. The simple ingredients and slow-cooked goodness create a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, looking for a dish to serve at your next potluck, or simply craving something warm on a chilly evening, this soup checks all the boxes.
With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and easy preparation, it’s a go-to recipe that will soon become a family favorite. Not only is it a delicious treat, but it’s also a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of slow cooking, making your meal time more effortless and enjoyable.
Enjoy this hearty, creamy soup with your loved ones and make it a part of your regular recipe rotation – it’s sure to become a staple in your home!
